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As
North Korea continues to defy the United Nations by openly threatening
South Korea and
the United States,
China is using the crisis for its own ends, writes
World Review author Dr
Uwe Nerlich.

"
China is following a long-term strategy aimed at neutralising US power and influence in its neighbourhood," he says. "
It has also tried to reduce the political impact the new South Korean leadership might have onNorth Koreawith its attempted peace campaign."

China's stand on the
North Korea nuclear issue presents it with a dual opportunity - to appear constructive on the United Nations Security Council level, and to challenge the US presence in the region through
North Korea - a proxy it can control - if it should get worse.

"
China's leadership is avoiding multilateralism which the US would favour," he says. "
TheUS, in turn, has to develop a coherent approach which goes beyond reconfirming itself as a Pacific power."

"
At stake will be control of the region, access to oil and gas riches, maritime security in the world's most important sea lanes."

This is a long-term issue and
China is pursuing a long-term political strategy. It is supported by a Chinese military build-up.